Goalkeeper involved in collision that killed Jesus de Miguel may never play again after being given 12-match ban
FC Andorra manager Carles Manso has spoken out after a decision was made on his goalkeeper following this month's collision which tragically led to the death of Jesús de Miguel.
The CD Tenerife striker sadly passed away in hospital just a couple of days after the incident in the game, which saw FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono crash into the striker with the full force of his knees as he raced in on goal.
Although the referee was quick to send Owono off, the game was soon abandoned after it became clear just how serious Miguel's injury was, as he stopped moving and was stretchered off the pitch, before his death in hospital.
A decision has now been made on the future of Owono, with the Spanish Football Federation deciding that a 12-game ban was necessary for his dangerous challenge, but considering the words of his manager, it may be tough for the 25-year-old to ever return to the sport professionally.
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Speaking out following the news of the punishment, manager Manso suggested that his keeper will be given space to recover from what was undoubtedly a traumatic experience for him.
He said: "We will give him space so that he feels completely free to make any decision, whether he wants to return, when, or if he does not want to return.
"When he feels it is appropriate and when he feels genuinely ready to take a decision like that [he will do so].
"What we have to do is support him in every way and be close to him."
Owono has faced significant abuse both online and in person, as he was subjected to chants of 'murderer' at matches and he's since retreated from public view after issuing a heartfelt statement online.
He wrote: "These are the most difficult days of my life. I struggle to find the words, and I find it very hard to process what has happened. I know there will be many questions to address, and I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect."
Owono finished his statement by paying tribute to de Miguel, adding: "But right now, honestly, I cannot think about anything other than Jesús and the pain we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesús."
The Equatorial Guinea shot-stopper was attempting to clear the ball when he collided with Miguel, as the striker chased down a ball in the last few minutes of the game, with the 31-year-old passing away the morning after the incident.
CD Tenerife wrote: "Broken with pain, with a lump in our throat and unable to believe that this is true, from CD Tenerife we communicate the tragic death, this Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 8:00 a.m., of Jesus de Miguel Alameda.
"There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing to mitigate this feeling full of sadness.
"We are with his devastated family, with his loved ones, with all the people of Tenerife who today mourn this cruel outcome.
"The family of Jesus de Miguel is grateful for each and every one of the expressions of support received, and also requests, from the bottom of its heart, maximum respect for his privacy, in these terrible moments.'"
A fundraiser set up for his family has since raised well over €200,000.
James Moorhouse
